Drug interactions
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Meperidine
Severity: Major
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Meperidine: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Concurrent use of two opioids increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. The effect is additive and dose related.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Meperidine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive mu-opioid receptor-mediated CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use of the two opioids where possible; if essential, use the lowest effective doses for the shortest duration and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Meperidine
- Alvimopan + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Meperidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Meperidine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Concurrent use of two opioids increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. The effect is additive and dose related.
How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Meperidine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid concurrent use of the two opioids where possible; if essential, use the lowest effective doses for the shortest duration and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
What other medicines interact with Meperidine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Meperidine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue. The full list is on the Meperidine page.
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